DAPA, Siargao — Five people, including a child, were rescued after their boat sank in rough seas off Barangay Union, Dapa, Siargao Island, amid the onslaught of Tropical Storm Basyang on Thursday, February 6, 2026.
According to local authorities and eyewitness accounts, the incident occurred in front of the Talisay Surfing Spot in Barangay Union while Siargao remained under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2. The distressed boat, which originated from Socorro, Surigao del Norte, was carrying four adult men and a young boy when it was overwhelmed by strong winds and powerful waves.
The vessel was reportedly transporting more than 20 sacks of charcoal intended for sale in General Luna. Due to the violent sea conditions, the cargo became soaked and scattered as the boat sustained heavy damage and eventually sank. Floating debris and cargo were later seen drifting near the shoreline early Thursday morning.
A distress call was immediately received by the Siargao Town Center rescue team and local responders. Despite hazardous conditions, a private speedboat was dispatched to reach the stranded passengers. However, continuous strong waves prevented the rescue boat from approaching the sinking vessel safely.
In a display of courage and quick thinking, local residents stepped in to assist. Barangay Union locals, together with a speedboat crew, attempted to reach the victims. Notably, Marny Rodela, a local surf instructor, used her longboard to ferry the passengers one by one through the rough waters to the waiting rescue boat.
“Because of the strong waves, the speedboat could not get close,” a local responder said. “It was through the help of residents, especially Ma’am Marny, that the victims were safely brought to shore.”
All five passengers were successfully transferred to the speedboat and brought to the beach, where they were immediately given assistance. They were later transported to General Luna and turned over to the Dapa Coast Guard for proper documentation and medical evaluation. No serious injuries were reported.
The rescued individuals were subsequently placed under the care of the General Luna Coast Guard, which coordinated with local disaster response units to ensure their safety and recovery.
The Coast Guard Sub-Station Dapa has launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the sinking. Initial reports suggest that strong winds, high waves, and unstable cargo conditions may have contributed to the incident, but officials said a full assessment is still underway.
In light of the incident, the Philippine Coast Guard reiterated its warning to the public, urging residents and visitors to avoid swimming, fishing, boating, and surfing during severe weather conditions.
“Given the continuing effects of Tropical Storm Basyang, all maritime activities remain dangerous,” the Coast Guard said in an advisory. “We strongly advise coastal residents to remain vigilant and evacuate when necessary.”
Authorities also reminded communities along the shoreline to closely monitor official weather updates and comply with evacuation orders, as Siargao remains vulnerable to strong winds, storm surges, and flooding while under Signal No. 2.
Local officials commended the bravery and solidarity shown by residents and rescue volunteers, emphasizing that community cooperation played a vital role in preventing loss of life.
As Tropical Storm Basyang continues to affect parts of Mindanao and Eastern Visayas, disaster response agencies are urging the public to prioritize safety, remain alert, and look out for one another during this critical period.